Villa Badia, Tuscany
Villa Badia, Tuscany
Can you share the story behind Home in Italy?
My name is Daniela De Luca, and I am the CEO of Home in Italy. I was born and raised in Umbria, a small, enchanting region in the heart of Italy. It’s a place rich in history, art, and breathtaking landscapes. A place where I started to admire beauty of the Italian countryside.
After graduating from the University of Perugia, I went to work in the vibrant London for a short time, when one day, while reading a UK magazine, I came across an advertisement from an English company specializing in luxury villa rentals. In Italy during the 1990s, this market was still largely unknown, so I found the idea of starting a project that included some sense of aesthetics and the best settings of the country quite exciting! The very next day, I found myself in an interview with a company in London that operated in this industry. That’s where my journey in luxury villa rentals began.
I was deeply connected to my country and wanted to create something unique, something that truly reflected the charm and authenticity of Italy. Unlike other companies, I didn’t want to simply select villas based on luxury alone; I was looking for properties with personality, history, and a soul. My vision was to curate a collection of homes that would offer travellers an immersive experience, combining elegance with the essence of Italian culture.
Over time, through dedication and passion, Home in Italy grew into what it is today, a trusted brand offering exclusive villas for rent that provide guests with the highest standards while maintaining its unique charm.
What sets Home in Italy apart from other luxury villa rental services in the country?
In addition to the attention to detail, we consider the personal relationships we build with villa owners and guests a plus. We focus on providing personalised concierge services, ensuring that each guest experiences Italy in a way that feels intimate and exclusive.
We believe that when a client is looking for a luxury villa rental, it’s essential to work with a company that truly understands the country, the geography of the area, and the specific location of each villa. This makes a huge difference in the overall experience.
We like to explain the level of road accessibility and what you will find in the nearest spots and villages that are of interest to tourists. These details are crucial for travellers who want to explore beyond the villa itself. Our villa specialists personally visit every property and have deep knowledge of each location because they live in the country. They can provide valuable insights that guests wouldn’t get from a generic tourist guide. We also have strong partnerships with trusted local service providers who offer exclusive experiences for our guests, from private chefs to cultural excursions. Many travellers may initially think of a villa rental as just a place to relax by the pool. But we help them discover so much more, from hidden gems in the region to immersive local experiences.
How does your company define luxury when it comes to villa rentals?
First and foremost, luxury is about service. Beyond that, luxury is also about location. A villa’s position, the views it offers, and its accessibility to key points of interest all matter. Also, the quality of the road leading to the villa plays a role.
Luxury is also reflected in the villa itself, the rooms’ size, the size and kind of garden, and the overall space. Luxury means space, comfort, and design. Additional luxury amenities also make a difference: a private spa, gym, tennis court, or even dedicated extra rooms. Some of our villas have an additional private suite specifically designed for a personal hairstylist. These kinds of details elevate the experience. The quality of furnishings is also essential, and Italy is home to some of the world’s most prestigious furniture designers. The right furnishings not only enhance comfort but also add character and identity to a villa.
For us, true luxury isn’t just about high-end features; it’s about a complete, immersive experience that combines service, location, design, and exceptional hospitality. That’s what makes Home in Italy stand out.
Villa Abaco in Sardinia, Porto Cervo
What clientele do you typically serve?
Our high-end clientele comes from all over the world, and we welcome a wide range of guests, from couples seeking a romantic getaway to large groups of friends and families. It’s truly heartwarming when clients contact us to arrange a villa stay for a multi-generational family gathering. Imagine grandparents, parents, and grandchildren coming from various parts of the world and collecting lifelong memories in Italy!
How do you curate your selection of villas? What criteria must a property meet to be included?
The selection process is very meticulous. First and foremost, we personally visit every villa, verifying whether the new property meets the required standards. We test every single room, every detail. Bedrooms may look beautiful in photos, but what about the mattresses? Are they too hard or too soft? We test them. The kitchen is another important aspect. We open every cupboard to check the quality of the appliances, dishes, and cutlery. Is it standard quality or high-end? These details matter because they shape the guests’ experience.
To ensure overall comfort, a luxury villa needs to provide spaciousness, privacy, and a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living. We examine the road leading to the villa, whether it’s easily accessible or too remote. Location is key. A villa can be beautifully secluded, but it should still be well-connected to main attractions, charming villages, and essential services.
Service is another major factor. We ask: does the property come with dedicated staff? Is there a daily maid, a chef, or a concierge service? These elements significantly elevate the luxury experience.
Which regions of Italy are particularly popular among your guests and why?
Central Italy is always in high demand. Tuscany and Umbria, in particular, embody the essence of La Dolce Vita, offering a perfect mix of beautiful landscapes, rich history, great food, and, of course, excellent wine. Tuscany, in particular, has a long tradition of hospitality and is well-experienced in catering to luxury travellers.
Other highly requested destinations include Sardinia, particularly Porto Cervo, which is known for its exclusive villas, pristine waters, and breathtaking beaches. It’s a special destination with high-end services, and it’s easily accessible, with Olbia airport just 40 minutes away.
Another prestigious location is Lake Como. It has a centuries-old tradition as a luxury retreat, dating back to the aristocrats of ancient Rome. Some of the most elegant and refined villas in Italy are found there, making it an elite destination for those seeking timeless sophistication.
We also specialise in luxury chalets in both Italy and France, particularly in Courchevel, Méribel and Megève. These locations are among the most requested for both winter ski vacations and summer mountain retreats.
ULTIMA Megève, an exclusive villa in the French Alps
Are there any particular villas in your portfolio that you consider truly special?
Some villas hold a special place in our collection because of their history, authenticity, or location.
For example, Villa Ada, located near the border between Tuscany and Umbria, is one of the most charming country houses in our portfolio. It is one of the oldest restored properties in the area, offering a perfect blend of untouched authenticity and modern luxury. It’s surrounded by nature, yet well connected to main roads and even within walking distance from a restaurant. It’s ideal for those looking for peace and privacy without being completely isolated.
Another standout property is Villa Badia, a large, stunning estate in Tuscany that we highly recommend. For guests wanting to stay closer to Florence, Villa Canova is another excellent option, offering a refined yet warm atmosphere near one of Italy’s most iconic cities.
Are there any hidden gem locations in Italy that you believe travellers should explore?
We recommend visiting the 60 UNESCO sites located from north to south of the country, as well as the historic palaces, castles, and churches of artistic interest restored and shown by FAI. The FAI (Italian Environmental Fund) is a non-profit foundation dedicated to the protection, enhancement, and management of Italy’s historical, artistic, and landscape heritage.
In particular, Umbria combines natural beauty, history, and authentic local experiences. Often referred to as “Italy’s Green Heart,” it truly lives up to that name. It offers stunning landscapes, medieval hilltop towns, and a much quieter, more serene experience compared to places like Tuscany.
You can visit Assisi, known for its spiritual significance, or explore charming towns like Spello and Montefalco, which are famous for their wines. Umbria is also a food lover’s paradise, with experiences like truffle hunting, olive oil tastings, and amazing farm-to-table meals.
Sardinia is a real hidden treasure. While it has the glamorous Costa Smeralda with its luxury resorts, there’s so much more to explore.
Daniela De Luca, CEO of Home in Italy
Beyond the villas themselves, what exclusive services or experiences do you offer to guests?
From the moment our guests make a reservation until the last day of their holiday, our premium concierge department is dedicated to creating a seamless and luxurious experience tailored to their preferences.
In addition to the standard villa services, we provide private chefs for special dinners, personalised cooking experiences, and exclusive culinary events. For those staying in the countryside, such as in Tuscany, we can arrange unique activities like truffle hunting, wine tasting at renowned wine estates, and elegant dinner parties.
We also ensure effortless travel by organising private transfers, yacht and car rentals, and even helicopter charters. For guests seeking bespoke experiences, we design private tours and exclusive visits customised to their interests. Our goal is to craft unforgettable moments and provide a truly personalised stay.
How does Home in Italy ensure a seamless and bespoke experience for its guests from booking to departure?
We focus on providing a completely personalised experience from the very beginning. Before guests even book, our sales team is dedicated to guiding them through the process, helping them choose the perfect villa for their needs. We take the time to understand their preferences, whether they’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a family-friendly space, or a luxury getaway. Our team provides expert recommendations based on what our guests are looking for to ensure they make the best choice.
Once the booking is confirmed, our premium concierge department takes over. We connect with our guests to discuss any specific need or special request they may have. Whether it’s arranging private chefs, organising exclusive tours, or suggesting local experiences, we ensure everything is pre-arranged before their arrival.
Throughout their stay, we remain fully dedicated to making sure everything goes smoothly. Our team is always on hand to assist with requests, from booking last-minute dinner reservations to securing private experiences, like yacht rentals or personal guides. Our goal is to make every moment stress-free, allowing guests to truly enjoy their time in Italy. We also gather feedback to continuously improve our services, making sure every guest’s experience is as seamless and memorable as possible.
Levante Villa, Sardinia
Can you share memorable guest experiences or special requests you’ve fulfilled?
I remember a particularly special request from a few years ago. A gentleman wanted to create an unforgettable moment for his fiancée during their holiday. He asked us to arrange a private dinner on top of an ancient tower along the Amalfi Coast, an incredibly romantic and unique setting.
We organised everything down to the finest detail, including a private chef who crafted an exquisite meal just for them. As the sun set over the stunning coastline, he proposed in this breathtaking location. It was a magical experience, and we were honoured to help bring his vision to life.
How do you incorporate Italian culture and traditions into the guest experience?
To ensure our guests fully immerse themselves in the Italian culture, we provide a dedicated Villa Book for each property. This personalised guide includes valuable insights about local traditions, seasonal cultural events, and historical highlights specific to the villa’s region.
Thanks to our Italy-based office, we are always up to date on new and authentic Italian experiences. Beyond what typical tourist guides offer, we share hidden gems and exclusive recommendations. Our goal is to provide a deeper, more personal connection to the region, allowing guests to experience Italy in the most authentic way possible.
How have luxury travel preferences evolved over the years? What do today’s travellers seek in a high-end villa experience?
Over the past 20 years, we have seen a significant evolution in luxury travel preferences. While a villa was once considered luxurious if it had high-end interiors and a private swimming pool, today’s travellers expect much more. The demand for exclusive amenities and personalised experiences has increased, pushing villa owners to continuously enhance their properties with the latest comforts and services.
Now, attention to detail is more important than ever. Guests appreciate thoughtfully designed spaces, state-of-the-art facilities, and tailored services that elevate their stay. Working closely with villa owners, we ensure that every property offers an exceptional level of comfort and style.
Beyond the physical aspects of luxury, hospitality plays a key role. Italians are naturally warm and welcoming, and villa owners take pride in offering genuine hospitality. They enjoy connecting with guests, sharing local traditions, and learning about different cultures. This cultural exchange creates a more meaningful and immersive experience, making each stay truly unforgettable.
Arrighi villa, Umbria
How has the demand for privacy and exclusivity influenced the villa rental market?
Privacy and exclusivity are fundamental values in the luxury villa rental market, and we take them very seriously. In fact, 90% of our properties ensure complete privacy, both indoors and outdoors.
When evaluating a villa, if we notice that there isn’t total privacy — for example, if part of the garden is visible from a neighbouring property — we make it a priority to inform guests by clearly stating this in the villa description. Transparency is key, as we understand how important privacy is for our clients.
Another crucial factor we carefully assess is noise levels. Whether guests are relaxing by the pool, dining under a pergola, or enjoying the garden, tranquillity is essential. We personally visit each villa, ask detailed questions to the owners, and determine the level of peace and quiet guests can expect. If there is potential for noise, we make sure to highlight this in the villa description. By prioritising privacy and tranquillity, we ensure that our guests can fully relax and enjoy an exclusive, stress-free stay.
Are there any new properties, services, or partnerships that Home in Italy is excited to introduce in the coming year?
We are always expanding our portfolio to offer more exclusive options to our guests. This year, we are particularly excited to branch into the luxury chalet market, opening up new regions for travellers looking for an extraordinary Alpine experience.
Our focus will be on offering high-end chalets that provide the same level of luxury and attention to detail that our guests have come to expect from our villas in Italy. This will give our clients more options, whether they’re looking for a winter getaway in the mountains or a luxurious retreat in a stunning, scenic location. We’re excited to expand our offerings and continue creating unforgettable experiences in new, exclusive destinations.
We’re also expanding within the regions we already operate in. We’ll be adding new villas while maintaining the same high luxury standards our guests are accustomed to. By adding more carefully selected properties, we can provide even more variety and exclusive choices, ensuring that each guest finds the perfect match for their needs, whether it’s a villa in the countryside, along the coast, or now in the mountains. We’re thrilled to continue offering unparalleled luxury experiences in both familiar and new destinations.
Finally, if you could describe the essence of staying in a Home in Italy villa in just a few words, what would they be?
Exclusive, personalised, authentic luxury. Staying in a Home in Italy villa is about experiencing the true heart of Italy with complete privacy, exceptional service, and the finest attention to detail. It’s all about creating unforgettable memories in a stunning, hand-picked location tailored to your every need.
Villa Breakwater Griante, Lake Como
Villa Breakwater Griante, Lake Como
To find out more about Home in Italy and its collection of villas, visit the links below…
HOME IN ITALY
Via Settevalli, 131 F
06129 Perugia PG
Italy
Web: homeinitaly.com
Tel: +39 075 505 7865
Email: info@homeinitaly.com
Instagram: @homeinitaly